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Staying Safe on Your ATV at Work

April 26, 2018

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) can make doing everyday tasks easier, especially when riding on uneven surfaces and off-road paths, and carrying loads and supplies. Although ATVs are convenient, they also add to on-the-job hazards.

Ride Safe

To remain safe while operating an ATV, practice the following safety tips:

Attend ATV instruction courses to learn how to operate the vehicle.

Read the manual carefully before attempting to ride, and ensure that you understand how to remain safe.

Never allow others to ride on an ATV with you.

Do not carry attachments or loads unless you are trained on how to effectively drive the vehicle while carrying cargo.

Never operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

Do not ride on public roads and avoid private, paved roads. Due to the way ATVs are made, they are difficult to control on paved roads. And collisions with cars and other vehicles can be deadly.

Wear a helmet that is designed specifically for riding an ATV. Helmets designed for other tasks will not provide the necessary protection from falls because they cannot absorb enough energy upon impact should you hit your head. A proper helmet should also resist blows from sharp objects, stay in place as you ride and provide minimal side vision. Also wear the appropriate eye protection if your helmet does not have a face shield.

Wear gloves to improve your grip on the controls and to reduce the pressure from holding onto the handlebars.

Wear boots to protect your feet and legs from debris and to maintain solid footing. This will also help maintain your balance and control.

Wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants to protect your skin from cuts and scrapes.

Scan ahead of you to identify hazards such as rocks, fallen branches, fences, wires and unstable surfaces. Notify your supervisor of potential hazards that should be removed.

Be on guard for unexpected hazards such as wildlife and other riders.

Drive at a moderate speed while taking weather conditions and the terrain into account.

Shift your weight when making turns and riding up and down hills.

Do Your Part

ATVs are a time-saving tool for many tasks, but must be used in a safe manner. If you have any questions or concerns about ATV safety, contact your supervisor.